Flashback Friday: Wyclef Jean and Pras

We don’t honor the Fugees enough.

Unquestionably, the Fugees are one of the most important collectives in hip-hop history yet, due to their relative obscurity in 2019, their contributions are often overlooked. Y’all know how it goes – out of sight, out of mind. Today, let’s give two-thirds of the trio their due.

Wyclef Jean, The Ecleftic: 2 Sides II a Book (2000)

It’s odd to call the architects of one of hip-hop’s greatest groups underrated, but that sure seems to be the case for Clef, especially in today’s space. His solo run following the dissolution of the Fugees was extremely successful, specifically his platinum-selling sophomore set, which landed him a Grammy for “911.”

Also check out:

“Thug Angels,” featuring Small World

“Perfect Gentleman,” featuring Hope

Pras, Ghetto Superstar (1998)

Wyclef and Lauryn Hill branching away from the Fugees and going solo always felt inevitable but I never even considered Pras as a solo artist. He proved me wrong with Ghetto Superstar – specifically the title track that was EVERYWHERE in 1998. Pras was out to show that he wasn’t just a third wheel, and this album showed that he did have star potential on his own.

Also check out:

“Avenues”

“Blue Angels,” featuring The Product

Now, it’s your turn. Email soulinstereoblog@gmail.com  hit me up on Twitter @etbowser, or stop by the comments section and share your Flashback Friday album. Leave a couple of sentences describing what makes it so great. I’ll feature your album on the blog.